ИСТИНА

Field emission characteristics of multi-emitter arrays of N-doped single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs), NanoBuds and a few-layer graphene flakes have been examined. The cathodes based on these materials demonstrated a low field electron emission with the “turn-on” fields of few Volts per micron, which may be ascribed to a high aspect ratio of nanocarbons. The films of NanoBuds and graphene flakes possess an excellent emission pattern homogeneity contrary to the conventional SWNT films. We believe that the high density of emission sites strongly depends on mechanical properties of the nanostructures. In particular, a high flexibility of carbon nanotubes negatively influences on the emission pattern uniformity increasing the field screening effect. Properties of N-doped and pure SWNT arrays have been compared. The role of N-doping has been established. The materials examined are of great interest due to their unique characteristics being promising for development of new types of field emission devices.